Philadelphia, Pennsylvania—America’s first World Heritage City—offers a blend of deep history, artistic brilliance, culinary indulgence, and local charm that attracts millions every year. If you’re traveling to this vibrant city for five days, this detailed itinerary captures the heart of Philly—from colonial landmarks to modern attractions, museums, and well-loved dining experiences.
Day 1: The Historic Core and America’s Foundations
Morning – Independence National Historical Park
Start your journey at Independence National Historical Park, the birthplace of American democracy. Pick up maps, reservations, and attraction guidance at the Independence Visitor Center (6th & Market Streets, Philadelphia, PA 19106).
Tour Independence Hall (520 Chestnut St), a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were adopted. Free guided tours must be reserved in advance via the National Park Service (Reserve Tickets Here).
Next, walk to Liberty Bell Center, to view this powerful symbol of American freedom. Entry is free.
- Location: 520 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106
- Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Tickets: Independence Hall – Free; Liberty Bell – Free
- Google Maps Directions: Liberty Bell & Independence Hall
Afternoon – National Constitution Center & Elfreth’s Alley
Visit the National Constitution Center (525 Arch St), a truly interactive museum where you can explore America’s founding charter.
- Tickets: $15 Adults / $11 Youth (Purchase Online)
Next, stroll to Elfreth’s Alley (124-126 Elfreth’s Alley), the nation’s oldest continually inhabited street, and visit the small museum within the 18th-century homes.
- Admission: $5 Adults
- Google Maps Directions: Elfreth’s Alley
Evening – Old City Dining & Penn’s Landing
Enjoy dinner at Zahav (237 St. James Place), Philadelphia’s acclaimed modern Israeli restaurant (reservations required, Zahav Reservations).
Then, unwind at Penn’s Landing, where waterfront lights and public art bring the evening to life.
- Google Maps Directions: Penn’s Landing Waterfront
Day 2: Culture, Art, and Market Delights
Morning – Breakfast at Sabrina’s Café & Rodin Museum
Start at Sabrina’s Cafe (1804 Callowhill St) for an iconic Philly breakfast—try the stuffed challah French toast.
Then, make your way to the Rodin Museum (2151 Benjamin Franklin Parkway), home to an extensive collection of Auguste Rodin sculptures, including The Thinker.
- Admission: Pay what you wish
- Google Maps Directions: Rodin Museum
Late Morning – Barnes Foundation
Just steps away, explore the Barnes Foundation (2025 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy). This world-class gallery displays one of the largest private collections of Impressionist and modern art.
- Admission: $25 Adults / Free for children 12 & under
- Tickets: Barnes Tickets
- Google Maps Directions: Barnes Foundation
Afternoon – Philadelphia Museum of Art & Rocky Steps
Continue along the Parkway to the Philadelphia Museum of Art (2600 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy). View masterpieces by Van Gogh, Duchamp, and Picasso, then climb the famous Rocky Steps!
- Admission: $25 Adults (Purchase Tickets)
- Hours: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Google Maps Directions: Museum of Art
Evening – Dinner and Scenic Vibes
Dine at The Dandelion (124 S 18th St), a British gastropub near Rittenhouse Square known for hearty fare like shepherd’s pie. Then, take a walk through Rittenhouse Square, one of Philadelphia’s prettiest parks, where live music fills the evening air in warmer months.
Day 3: Science, Nature, and Hidden Gems
Morning – Franklin Institute
Start your day with wonder at The Franklin Institute (222 N 20th St), a science museum that fascinates children and adults alike. Interactive exhibits include a massive heart you can walk through, a planetarium, and IMAX films.
- Admission: $23 Adults / $19 Youth (Buy Tickets)
- Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Google Maps Directions: Franklin Institute
Afternoon – Fairmount Park & Boathouse Row
Explore Fairmount Park, one of America’s largest city park systems with scenic trails, historic mansions, and river views. Don’t miss nearby Boathouse Row, with its famous illuminated houses reflecting over the Schuylkill River.
- Admission: Free
- Google Maps Directions: Boathouse Row
Late Afternoon – Eastern State Penitentiary
Experience one of Philadelphia’s most distinctive historical sites: the Eastern State Penitentiary (2027 Fairmount Ave). Once home to Al Capone, this former prison offers immersive audio tours narrated by Steve Buscemi.
- Admission: $17 Adults (Tickets)
- Hours: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
- Google Maps Directions: Eastern State Penitentiary
Evening – Dinner in Fairmount Neighborhood
Enjoy dinner at Jack’s Firehouse (2130 Fairmount Ave), a restaurant in a restored firehouse offering Southern-inspired comfort food.
Day 4: Markets, Neighborhoods, and Murals
Morning – Italian Market and Magic Gardens
Take a walking food tour through the 9th Street Italian Market (9th St between Wharton & Fitzwater). Explore the open-air stalls, taste handmade pasta, and stop for a cannoli. Then, wander into Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens (1020 South St), Isaiah Zagar’s colorful mosaic maze of mirrors and tiles.
- Magic Gardens Admission: $15 Adults (Book Tickets)
- Hours: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
- Google Maps Directions: Magic Gardens
Afternoon – Mural Arts Philadelphia Tour
Take a Mural Arts Philadelphia Tour, the city’s official art program highlighting over 4,000 vibrant public murals. Engaging guides explain the stories and social movements behind Philadelphia’s art scene.
- Tickets: $30 Adults (Mural Arts Tours)
Evening – Dinner on South Street
End the day on South Street, known for its eclectic nightlife. Eat at Braje (Fourth & South Streets), a bustling spot serving burgers and craft beers, or opt for Fat Tuesday for cocktails with live jazz.
Day 5: Adventure and Farewell Views
Morning – Philadelphia Zoo
Spend your final day at the Philadelphia Zoo (3400 W Girard Ave), America’s first zoo. With over 1,300 rare animals and the innovative Zoo360 trail system, it’s a great family-friendly activity.
- Admission: $28 Adults (Zoo Tickets)
- Hours: 9:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
- Google Maps Directions: Philadelphia Zoo
Afternoon – Franklin Square or Cherry Street Pier
Relax at Franklin Square (200 N 6th St), a fun urban park with Philadelphia-themed mini golf, carousel rides, and outdoor cafes, or head to Cherry Street Pier, a refurbished pier hosting art installations and markets.
- Admission: Free
- Google Maps Directions: Cherry Street Pier
Dinner – Farewell at Morgan’s Pier
End your Philadelphia visit at Morgan’s Pier (221 N Columbus Blvd) with dinner and sunset views of the Delaware River and Benjamin Franklin Bridge. Enjoy seafood, seasonal cocktails, and live music as you say goodbye to the city.
- Morgan’s Pier Official Site
- Google Maps Directions: Morgan’s Pier
Philadelphia’s 5-day adventure offers an unforgettable mix of heritage, art, culture, and local flavor. From the cobblestone streets of Old City to the creative energy of South Street and the grandeur of its museums, every moment reflects the city’s ability to blend the old and the new.
Over five days, visitors can experience Philadelphia’s complete story—past and present—while soaking in the welcoming atmosphere that makes it one of America’s most vibrant urban destinations. Each attraction unveils a new thread in Philly’s colorful fabric, inviting you to return and explore even more.
For more travel ideas and guides, visit MyPhillyConnection.